Creagh named new Dragons skipper

St George Illawarra has appointed back rower Ben Creagh as the NRL club's new captain for the 2013 season.

The NSW Origin representative takes over from the retired Ben Hornby and is excited about the challenge of taking the Dragons into a new era following the retirement and departure of several key figures over the past few years.

"It's a very proud day for me," Creagh said.

"I've been lucky enough to be involved with this club the last 16 years, started playing for Illawarra when I was under-13s and it's always been a dream of mine to be captain.

"It's something I'm very excited about, something I'm ready for and it's a role at this club I never want to take for granted."

Coach Steve Price said there were a number of worthy contenders for the role, including the likes of veteran centre Matt Cooper and New Zealand international Jason Nightingale.

Creagh however seemed the obvious choice with Price saying he was keen to have a leader in place for the duration of the preseason.

A number of former Dragons skippers such as Craig Young, Brian Johnston and Paul McGregor were on hand for the announcement - all unanimous in their support for Creagh getting the job.

"I was looking for a captain that goes above and beyond the call of duty with the club going forward," Price said.

"He typifies the standards I'm trying to set at this football club.

"It was a decision that wasn't taken lightly but at the end of the day Ben was the number one choice."